Entries with the tag: rory boylen

It is my pleasure to bring to you another e-mail interview I conducted with someone in the hockey media.

This time, it is Rory Boylen, the web editor of The Hockey News’ s web site. Rory was kind enough to take time out of his very busy schedule to tell us about how he got into hockey, how he got a great gig with THN as well as his thoughts on the offseason.

PH: How did you get into hockey?RB:Like many people, I got into hockey in Canada through the minor hockey system, but that’s not the only reason I stayed glued to it. I’m 28 and for the past 21 years we have had a rink in the back yard at my parents house. When we go home for Christmas my dad, brothers and I still build it. We’d have friends over for games, especially on Saturday nights. My brothers and I would also have a competition of who could skate for the most days in a row. I don’t remember what the highest number was or who won, but I’ll say I did. In my teen years I started refereeing and did that for 10 years. It was a challenge, but a lot of fun and I miss it now. So many things got me into hockey and I like to think I’ve seen the game from a bunch of different angles.

PH: Growing up, who was your favorite team/player? Why?RB:My family is all Bruins fans and living an hour north of Toronto you find yourself cheering for the Maple Leafs, too. But I really broke the mold when I decided I’d root for the Florida Panthers. That solidified the year they made it to the Cup final since my best friend was a Nordiques/Avalanche fan – what a painful loss that was. Favorite player is a tough question because I usually don’t have one until they really grow on me. Looking back, it has to be Brendan Shanahan.